Enrich Knowledge Societies, Reinforce Loyalty and Belonging, And Consolidate National Identity
The National Library and Archives Enrich Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival 2024 With Numerous Activities for Children

The National Library and Archives (NLA) continues its participation in the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF 2024) and welcomes students at The Emirates Schools Establishment (Taaleem) platform. It aims at enriching knowledge societies, reinforcing loyalty and belonging, and consolidating national identity. The NLA participated in this event as a genuine response to the wise leadership’s guidance, aiming to dedicate reading as a sustainable habit for youth, in addition to their role as a strategic partner in enhancing national awareness among future generations of students.
The NLA offers diverse activities that enrich knowledge societies, reinforce patriotism among students, and contribute to student character building, starting from painting workshops, where student participants colour some of the UAE’s landmarks, flag, map, and traditional vocabulary.
Moreover, one of the large screens at the (Taaleem) platform showcases cartoons produced by the NLA, aimed at instilling national identity, promoting document care, and preserving authentic Emirati customs and traditions.
The NLA presents reading sessions for children of stories from The Writers (71) initiative. Distinctive writers in this initiative read their inspiring and award-winning stories, which narrate, in a literary manner, the milestones of the UAE’s great achievements and experiences from its successful march.
The national reading workshops organized by the NLA are presented to student visitors of the festival, including “Zayed: From Challenges to Union”, which enriches student’s memory with additional information about the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, focusing on his education, upbringing, and exceptional efforts in establishing the union. Additionally, workshops were held for the books “Khalifa: Journey into the Future” and “Qasr Al Hosn, The History of The Rulers of Abu Dhabi 1793-1966”.
The NLA workshops and activities for students motivate them to embrace the values embodied by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, symbolizing courage and sacrifice for the nation and its people.

Also on display was the educational booklet “My Nation, The Emirates” (Watani Al Emarat) which contains documented information, exercises, activities, and interesting trainings, all related to the history of the UAE, its heritage, geography, and vibrant present.
Student visitors of the festival enjoyed participating in the national educational game “The Journey”, where they answered questions inspired by the life of the late founding father Shiekh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as well as historical and heritage knowledge documented by the NLA’s publications, enriching students with reliable information.
Alongside these physical activities, a series of virtual events are being held in various fields such as: reading, painting, “The Journey” game, and lectures titled: “His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed: The Best Successor to the Best Predecessor”, “The Centenary of the UAE”, and “The UAE: A Homeland of Sustainability”, and others. A team of experts oversees these activities.
The participation of the National Library and Archives underscores the effectiveness of its integrated educational system. This system aims to channel students’ energies towards directed national programs that contribute to societal development, student character building, and the reinforcement and deepening of national values and ethics.

Through Inspiring Experiences and Advices for Sustaining Giving, Development and Progress
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Symposium on Entrepreneurship and Projects in its 2024 Cultural Season
Within its 2024 cultural season, the National Library and Archives organized a symposium entitled: “Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises,” in which participants reviewed inspiring experiences aimed at sustaining progress and development on the personal and work levels. The symposium was held as the National Library and Archives believes that its topic would promote positive energy in the people.
The symposium, which was moderated by Ms. Iman Al-Bariki from the National Library and Archives, began with a talk by Mr. Tayseer Mohammed Ismail, Head of the Small and Medium Enterprises Data Section at the Department of Economic Development, on the concept of entrepreneurship and how to transform an idea into a business, by going through all the stages of establishment, growth, and financing in an effective and unconventional way, while ensuring continuity untill making profit and achieving financial independence.
He provided important details about the characteristics of an entrepreneur, the key criteria for selecting projects, the foundations for their success, and how to overcome challenges. He also reviewed entrepreneurship indicators in the UAE, both locally and internationally.
The second speaker at the symposium, Engineer Iman Ahmed Al-Thaqafi, founder of Avitek, a company specializing in the field of Metaverse, said: “A successful entrepreneur must have the ability to intelligently extrapolate and plan, and to seize every available opportunity to achieve his/her ambition. The success of small projects depends on the owner’s desire for change and development through hard work, guided by a vision that explores future horizons and turns dreams into reality, and the pursuit of overcoming all challenges faced.”.
Al-Thaqafi discussed the working conditions in the field of electrical engineering at Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority. She pointed out that this opportunity allowed her to pursue her passion in the field of Metaverse. Consequently, she established a specialized company named Avitech, which is the first Emirati company founded by an Emirati engineer to apply it to an environment that can be simulated. This resulted in a professionally designed project, so realistic that it is difficult for people to distinguish it from the real world. The company specializes in the field of augmented virtual reality. Iman insisted on delving into the details by researching, learning, and attending most of the specialized training courses in this field. She mentioned that what distinguishes the startup is its ability to offer the best services in an innovative way, ensuring the provided programs are handled with high quality and at a competitive price.
The third speaker, Engineer Saleh Samhan Al Nuaimi, founder of small home-based businesses and a content creator for developing youth knowledge and skills in an easy and enjoyable manner, said: “Entrepreneurship is not an easy task. The challenges faced by entrepreneurs require a special ability and skill to overcome them and promote innovation. Success and excellence sometimes require a significant amount of change and risk-taking. A project owner needs to efficiently foresee the future of his/her project and manage it skillfully. The Entrepreneur also requires ambition and perseverance.”
Al Nuaimi mentioned that his motivation began while studying abroad. He continued to work and put in efforts until he earned an additional income, greatly aided by the encouragement of his family and friends. He started his home-based baking business during the summer vacation, and subsequent home projects followed on, untill he ventured into clothing design, perfumes and flowers.
He advised the audience not to hesitate in implementing any ideas come to their minds and to quickly start their business projects. He also emphasized that an entrepreneur should strive to use smart marketing for their projects’ products in order to gain others’ trust.

“Zayed, A Visual Journey”, Western Journeys, Reading Historical Documents and Others
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Rich Program of Cultural Lectures and Dialogue Seminars at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

The National Library and Archives (NLA) organized several national cultural events in the 33rd edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), The diversity of the events attracted the attention of visitors from different categories.
In the dialogue seminar on the book: “Zayed, A Visual Journey”, moderated by Mr. Waled Ghilan with Mrs. Nouf Al Junaibi, Chief Editor of Liwa Magazine. Al Junaibi stated: “This precious book, with its distinguished cover and valuable content, contains many pages that share historical pictures depicting the life and achievements of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”
She pointed out that the book also documents aspects of the key role of the late Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, as a companion to Shiekh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Al Junaibi added: “The book, “Zayed, A Visual Journey”, consists 448 large-format pages, and has 640 precious photographs selected from the special collections held by the photo archive in the NLA. This has made the book a visual encyclopedia of rare photos of Sheikh Zayed, highlighting his great legacy, noble values, and love for his country.
In another seminar organized by the National Library and Archives entitled: “A Glimpse into Western Traveler literature and its impressions and observations”, researcher Dr. Mani Bu Naama reviewed the most significant and prominent works of Western travelers to the Gulf region and the Arabian Peninsula. These travelers came from diverse backgrounds and origins, including Portugal, the Netherlands, France, Britain, America, and others. He clearly discussed their goals, desires to venture, inspect, learn, and discover the Eastern magic, its culture, heritage, and rich ancient past with contains tales and stories.
These travelers have recorded their views, impressions, and collected much information, including cultural, social, political, and economic facts related to the diaries and life of the Gulf society, especially the Emirati society.
Dr. Bu Naama emphasized the discrepancy in the validity and variation of the information recorded by the travelers, as it was written according to the purpose and the need of writing it. He added that the writings of travelers are filled with many images stored in their memories, observations, and impressions about the region and the lives of its people, their culture, habits, and traditions, and what they found striking and what caught their attention. They delved into describing the land and its geography, terrain, climate, resources, land and sea, atmosphere, and its inhabitants, along with their political, social, and cultural status, customs, traditions, and practices.
The National Library and Archives platform also organized a dialogue seminar entitled “The Role of Translation Institutions in Enhancing Cultural Exchange and Dialogue of Civilizations: The National Library and Archives as a Model”. The seminar was presented by Professor Dr. Saddik Gouhar, the expert in translation at the National Library and Archives, and researcher Mr. Waleed Ghilan. The seminar reviewed the history of translation in Europe and the Arab and Islamic world, then they shifted to the current state of translation in the Arab world and its challenges.
The National Library and Archives has also hosted a lecture on reading historical documents, by Mrs. Fatma Al Mazrouei, Head of Historical Archive Section at the Archive Department in the National Library and Archives. She identified the historical document and emphasized its significance in preserving material and moral heritage and documenting the history of the development of cities and buildings, as well as the historical importance of economic, social, and cultural aspects of the societies and their development.
Moreover, she listed the types of documents and historical sources and spoke about the sources, which, the NLA relies on to obtain the historical documents.
The lecture showed a perfect model of the union records as an important and live example on the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive (AGDA) platform, aiming to provide researchers with documents, photos, maps … etc.

NLA Continues its Role in Documenting the UAE Inspiring Personalities
NLA Documented About 3000 Entries in Sheikh Tahnoun Diaries
The National Library and Archives Launches the Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

The National Library and Archives launched at its platform in the 33rd edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024, the book: The Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain region. Sheikh Tahnoun Al Nahyan had a biography full of achievements. He was a close companion of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and builder, and this blessed companionship had a distinct impact on his thinking and management. He gained practical experience, knowledge, and wisdom from Sheikh Zayed in making the right decisions and increased his closeness and communication with the people of Al Ain in their joys and occasions. He was among the men in whom Sheikh Zayed placed his utmost trust.
Commenting on the Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Muhammad Al Nahyan, His Excellency Abdulla Majid Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, says: “The accomplishments of the late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed are worthy of documentation and preservation in the nation’s memory for the future generations. His significant achievements highlight his major role both before and after the establishment of the Union. His eventful life further elevated his status in the history of the United Arab Emirates, enriching his biography with a distinctive patriotic character – as he was a close companion to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”
He added: “The Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, compiled by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi, documented a series of events and daily activities. These diaries covered the period from 1966 to 2010, which was full of patriotic contributions.”
His Excellency said: “We, at the National Library and Archives are keen to document the biographies of the inspiring national figures. Therefore, we issued a series of diaries, starting with the diaries of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. These diaries are not only confined to the person’s journey; but they provide a picture of the establishment, development and prosperity of the United Arab Emirates. They will present a good help for the generations, and act as a beacon of light that will guide them on the path of choosing a role model in building the nation and preserving its achievements, and in continuing to hold the banner to put our dear UAE at the forefront of the countries of the world. We are following our wise leadership directives in this regard.”
The Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Muhammad contain the positions he held, his interests, and activities in the various areas of life. The shows the extent of development, growth and excellence the UAE has achieved, in a way that leads the researcher to adopt a comparative approach between the fundamentals upon which the UAE was founded. The diaries touch on various fields: political, social, economic, media, security, and sports…. They represent a smaller part of his deeds, which were compiled from what has been published in the daily newspapers: (Monitoring Bulletin, Al–Ittihad, Al-Khaleej, Al-Bayan, Al-Wahda, Al-Arab News, Al-Emarat Al-Youm newspapers, and the Official Gazette of the UAE Government).
The diaries come in four volumes. At the beginning of each volume is an index of its contents by years, followed by an introduction, then the diaries of Sheikh Tahnoun continue. At the end of each volume is a detailed, comprehensive index of all the diaries and photographs of Sheikh Tahnoun relevant to these diaries.
Volume 1: From 1966 to 1980.
Volume 2: From 1981 to 1990.
Volume 3: From 1991 to 2005.
Volume 4: from 2006 to 2010.
The diaries are compiled in a chronological order and documented in a way that facilitates reference to the origin, source, and date of the event to make it easier for researchers to access events they cited with reliable evidences.
The Diaries Document the Milestones in the Life of the Late Sheikh Tahnoun:
On September 11, 1966, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan issued Emiri Decree No. (2) of 1966 appointing Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Chairman of Al Ain Municipality. He was also appointed as a member in Abu Dhabi Planning Council. On May 1, 1969, he was appointed Chairman of the Municipality, Agriculture, Labor and Social Affairs Departments in the Eastern Region, and on May 1, 1971, he was appointed Deputy Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region.
On the August 6, 1969, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – in his capacity as Chairman of the Planning Council – issued Resolution No. (1) of 1969 regarding the establishment of the Municipal Council of Al Ain region and the neighboring villages (Al Ain, Hili, Qattara, Al Jimi, Al Muwaiji, Al Masoudi, Murijib, Zakher and more). The council consists of twelve members: two to be nominated by the Municipal Council of Abu Dhabi from among its members, and the other ten members from Al Ain region to be nominated by: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Chairman of the Defense Department, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Municipality and Agriculture Departments. Labor and Social Affairs in the Eastern Region. The nomination list was presented to the Planning Council.
On August 7, 1970, Sheikh Zayed – in his capacity as Chairman of the Planning Council – issued Resolution No. (3) of 1970, vide which Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan was appointed Chairman of the Al Ain Municipal Council.
On July 1, 1971, Sheikh Zayed issued Emiri Decree No. (8) of 1971, forming the first ministry in the history of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, headed by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan was appointed Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture.
On August 9, 1971, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan issued Emiri Decree No. (26) of 1971 appointing Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as the Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region.
On March 12, 1972, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan issued an order appointing Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region and Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture in Abu Dhabi, as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Al Ain Agricultural Experiment Station.
On July 8, 1972, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (31) of 1972, appointing Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Fund for Arab Economic Development, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan as a member of the Board of Directors.
On July 16, 1973, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – in his capacity the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (13) of 1973, appointing Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture, as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company.
On January 20, 1974, Sheikh Zayed – in his capacity as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (2) of 1974 appointing Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Municipality and Agriculture Department in Al Ain.
On November 4, 1974, the Permanent Office of the Arab Towns Organization – with its headquarters in Kuwait – issued a unanimous decision selecting Sheikh Tahnoun bin Muhammad Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region, as a member of its office.
On March 21, 1976, Sheikh Zayed – in his capacity as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (6) of 1976 regarding the formation of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi as Vice Chairman, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, as a member.
On January 9, 1977, Sheikh Zayed – in his capacity as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (3) of 1977, appointing Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as Vice Chairman of the Executive Council, and Chairman of the Municipality and Agriculture Department in Al Ain.
On March 6, 1978, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – in his capacity, as Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (4) of 1978 appointing Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, as a member in it.
On July 20, 1982, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – when he was the President of the United Arab Emirates and in his capacity as the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (9) of 1982 renewing the membership of the members of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi as Vice Chairman of the Council, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as a member.
On June 5, 1988, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan issued Emiri Decree No. (1) of 1988 regarding the formation of the Supreme Petroleum Council, Chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as a member. He also issued Emiri Decree No. (2) of 1988 appointing the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi as a Deputy, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as a member.
On November 25, 1991, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in his capacity, as the Deputy Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (8) of 1991 regarding the formation of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, under his chairmanship, and appointing Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman of Abu Dhabi Public Works Department, and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as Vice Chairman of the Municipality and Agriculture Department in Al Ain.
On June 4, 1992, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – in his capacity, as the Deputy Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Emiri Decree No. (4) of 1992, appointing Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan as Chairman of Municipality and Urban Planning Department in Al Ain, and the Department of Agriculture and Livestock in Al Ain.
On March 14, 2017, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – in his capacity, as Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi – issued Law No. (7) of 2017, amending the name of the “Eastern Region” in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to become “Al Ain Region”, and that Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in it.

With over 640 Photographs, Poems, and Quotes of Sheikh Zayed
The National Library and Archives Displayed its New Remarkable Publication “Zayed, A Visual Journey” at its Platform in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024

The book: “Zayed, A Visual Journey” attracted the audience of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) to the National Library and Archives (NLA) Platform. The book offers an interesting and valuable visual journey, sharing the life of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan from his early life till he became the Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain, during which it flourished. It also documents the period when he took up the reins of Abu Dhabi government and the renaissance that began since then, along with his presidency of the United Arab Emirates, which earned its place on the world map under his wise leadership.
The book: “Zayed, A Visual Journey”, consisting of 448 large-format pages, contains 640 precious photographs selected from the special collections held by the National Library and Archives. This has made the book a visual encyclopedia of rare photos of Sheikh Zayed, highlighting his great legacy, noble values and love for his country. This has made him immortal in the hearts of generations and a role model for them in patriotism and loyalty to the homeland.
The book provides the reader with a chance of diving into a valuable pictorial experience, as well as exploring the national values founded by Sheikh Zayed locally, regionally and globally.
The NLA has enriched the book: “Zayed, A Visual Journey” with many design patterns, traditional Islamic decorations. Additionally, some of the book’s pages present the poems of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, written in Arabic that draws attention and combines the beautiful forms of calligraphy with profound meanings and wisdom.
Visitors availed the opportunity of watching a film documenting the distinguished method of printing the book on a large screen at the National Library and Archives’ platform at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
Its noteworthy that the book’s photos are sourced from Al-Ittihad Newspaper, the Associated Press, the British Petroleum Archive, the Royal Geographical Society Archive, the Pitt Rivers Museum, and the archives of the following familes: Kennedy, Wilfred Thesiger, Alan Hurd, Ronald Codray, Victor Hashem, Edrik Worsnop, John Wilkinson, Tug Wilson, Hermann Burchardt, Percy Cox, Roger Barcham, Anthony Rendle, Alastair Macaskill, Barbara Clark, and Philip Horniblow.

The National Library and Archives participates in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024 with a large number of events.
The National Library and Archives (NLA) enriched the 33rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) with a plethora of activities in addition to showcasing the NLA publications which document the history of the UAE and the biographies of its great leaders with their impressive great national achievements. The NLA platform introduced visitors to its latest books, periodicals, and many historical pictures. Moreover, the large screens in the platform displayed films documenting important milestones in Emirati-Egyptian relations, along with others illustrating the NLA national efforts in preserving the memory of the nation.
His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: “The National Library and Archives is interested in participating in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair since it contributes to propelling the NLA’s role in enriching knowledge societies with its distinguished cultural production, knowledge and services for researchers, academics, students, and the public. Other NLA services include organizing official and private archives as well as preserving, processing, and restoring historical documents.”
His Excellency added that the NLA’s keenness to put its initiatives in the limelight prompts it to take advantage of ADIBF, which is a major cultural event drawing audiences from across the globe. The NLA’s participation in ADIBF aims to strengthen mutual cultural bonds, build relationships, foster cooperation and integration with cultural institutions and publishers, and reach out to the exhibition audience and participants to bring them closer to the memory of the nation.
His Excellency invited ADIBF audience to visit the NLA platform to view its initiatives and latest publications, namely “Zayed, A Visual Journey”, “Diaries of Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan”, and others.
The NLA organized educational activities at its platform since the start of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. Besides, the NLA platform hosted a dialogue seminar entitled “The Role of Translation Entities in Promoting Cultural Dialogue Among Civilizations: the NLA As a Model”, on the second day of ADIBF. It reviewed the history of translation in Europe, the Arab world, and the Islamic world, then delved into to the status of translation in the Arab world in the present time (the third millennium).
The seminar touched on various themes including translation and cultural movement in the post-globalization era, the obstacles facing the translation movement in the Arab world, and the role of the NLA and similar institutions in the UAE in supporting and revitalizing the translation movement at all levels.
It’s worth noting that the NLA’s participation in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair involved organizing specialized seminars and educational activities for students. On another note, the NLA took advantage of ADIFB to enrich its library with the latest publications related to the history and heritage of the UAE.
The NLA welcomed the ADIBF visitors at its Platform No. G11 in Hall Five throughout the exhibition days.

The Poetry of Sheikh Zayed is the Main Topic of a Number of Research and Studies That Show the Necessity for Translating the Emirati Culture.
The National Library and Archives Emphasizes the Importance of Translating the Poetry of Sheikh Zayed into English for its Authenticity and Embodiment of High National Principles and Values.
The 4th International Translation Conference, which will be organized by the National Library and Archives under the slogan (Towards New Horizons: Translation and the Building Knowledge Societies) on 17-18 April 2024 – honors the poetry of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, being an original poet who was keen to revive heritage, preserving customs and traditions, and sustaining growth, development and progress in the United Arab Emirates. One of the most important studies that the conference will witness is a study of his poetry as an example of the importance of translating the Emirati heritage into living languages in order to enhance the image of the UAE on the map of global culture.
The research, which will be presented by Professor Dr. Saddik Gouhar, Translation Expert at the National Library and Archives, entitled: “The Intellectual and Cultural Importance of Translating Emirati Heritage into English: The Poems of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as an Example” – confirms the importance of Sheikh Zayed’s poems, which were full of glories, heroism, ambition, and aspiration for ideals and values and high values.
The researcher examines excerpts from the poetry of Sheikh Zayed from multiple aspects in light of contemporary poetic translation theories and the theories of the British Poet Sir Philip Sidney, who praised ancient poets. The researcher confirms that Sheikh Zayed’s poems are an integral part of the heritage of Nabati poetry, which Ibn Khaldun referred to in his (Muqaddimah), which was first published in 1377. Sheikh Zayed was one of the pioneers of Emirati Nabati poetry. The Nabati poetry has been considered as an essential aspect of the local culture. Among the local poets who mastered the Nabati poetry is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and other contemporary poets.
The researcher examines excerpts from the poetry of Sheikh Zayed from multiple aspects in light of contemporary poetic translation theories and the theories of the British Poet Sir Philip Sidney, who praised ancient poets. The researcher confirms that Sheikh Zayed’s poems are an integral part of the heritage of Nabati poetry, which Ibn Khaldun referred to in his (Muqaddimah), which was first published in 1377. Sheikh Zayed was one of the pioneers of Emirati Nabati poetry. The Nabati poetry has been considered as an essential aspect of the local culture. Among the local poets who mastered the Nabati poetry is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and other contemporary poets.
The research discusses the importance of translating Sheikh Zayed’s poems into foreign languages, especially English, because his poems are creative paintings of national narratives and narrations that are deep-rooted in the Emirati history and cultural heritage. His poems have a local feature that highlights the importance of preserving heritage, honors the UAE cultural achievements, and having pride in national traditions and legacies. These poems also present topics about the UAE cultural and civilizational diversity. They also depict the insightful vision of Sheikh Zayed into life in the desert and oasis communities. These poems constitute the first literary works that have dealt with environmental issues, and formed a source of knowledge and a national symphony that chronicles the achievements of fathers and grandfathers, provides advice to the promising young generations, and are full of wonderful verses of wisdom and moral guidance. Sheikh Zayed’s poems strengthens the bonds of communication between the various segments of Emirati society. In addition to the human and aesthetic feelings that are considered the main pattern of most of the poems and thereby highlight the deep-rooted authentic features in the moral and social structure of Emirati society.
The conference sessions will discuss other issues related to the UAE society; so Professor Adriaan De Man from the United Arab Emirates University will present a study entitled: “Digitized Historical Resources for Sustainable UAE Heritage”. Professor Ivan Williams from the University of Abuja in Nigeria will present a study entitled: “AI-Enhanced Multilingual Cinema and Inclusivity in the Emirates and Globally”. Professor Dr. Soňa Šnircová from Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Slovakia will present a study entitled: “Arabic Literature in Slovak translation”, in addition to many other research papers and studies.

The National Library and Archives hosts its first Ramadan Majlis’ evening.
About the Arabian Saluki and its ancient and deep-rooted origins in the UAE and the Arabian Peninsula’s deserts

The National Library and Archives hosted in its Majlis the first Ramadan evening on the “Saluki… An authentic breed and ancient deep-rooted origin” The cultural evening was attended by a great crowd of dignitaries and intellectuals. This evening came in line with the new National Library and Archives’ corporate brand, aspiring to enrich knowledge societies and promote awareness about the ancient heritage as an important and key pillar in instilling and preserving national identity.
Commenting on the National Library and Archives’ Majlis, His Excellency, Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General, quoted the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, stating that: “The Majlis is a school in its own right’’, and the National Library and Archives concurs and believes in the great significance of Majlises, and has accordingly established its Majlis to serve as a cultural destination and a knowledge hub that promotes, and establishes its leading and crucial role in culture production and sustainability, and in enriching knowledge societies. The Majlis was inaugurated at the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, which is renowned for being the month of enhancing human communication and social relations.
H.E. added: “The National Library and Archives intends to host various Ramadan evenings with the participation of prominent cultural and intellectual figures, to discuss and delve into diverse important topics and crucial issues relating to Emirati heritage and culture, and to explore cultural horizons with various renowned specialists and creative cultural figures.”
His Excellency welcomed all attendees and thanked the seminar participating speakers and Saluki owners.
The lecture was delivered by Mr. Hamad Ghanim Shaheen Al Ghanim, Founder and owner of the Arabian Saluki Club, and Chairman of the Arabian Saluki competitions and Heritage Races Committee, who tackled the historical importance of Salukis in the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian Peninsula, stressing that it is one of the key elements of the celebrated Emirati heritage to which great various levels’ interest and attention are attached.
Al-Ghanim stressed that the Saluki history in the Arabian Peninsula dates back thousands of years and talked about the Arabian Saluki types in the Emirates, mentioning two categories or breeds, namely: the feathery or “Al Aryash”, and the smooth or “Al-Hoss”. He added that Arabs call their Salukis names that are derived from their color, breed or qualities, and that some poets praised the Salukis in their poems, commending and celebrating their loyalty and great role when accompanying falconers on hunting trips, and in safeguarding the villages or “mahadhir”.
He pointed out that Saluki owners participate in Saluki racing competitions or festivals and in Saluki beauty contests. Al-Ghanim’s lecture was clarified and enriched by physically presenting more than ten Saluki hound dogs that were accompanied by their owners, where he introduced the feathery Saluki known as “Al-Aryash” and the smooth one known as “Al-Hoss”, pointing out that Salukis’ life span often exceeds twenty years.
The Veterinarian, Dr. Bilal Abdel Halim educated the audience about Salukis care-taking procedures, stressing that prevention is always better than cure, as it reduces the sick Saluki’s owner’s treatment or medication expenses and sufferings. Protecting a Saluki from sickness or disease requires performing regular and periodic medical examinations, vaccinations against viruses, mites or insects, etc., it also requires determining food amounts based on the Saluki’s age, type and sex, and the targeted objective, whether it is racing or a beauty context, and ensuring that its food is kept pure and preserved against heat and moisture, so it does not get spoilt.
The Ramadan Majlis’ evening was well received and witnessed great interaction from the audience and all present as they highly appreciated the valuable information introduced by Mr. Al-Ghanim about Salukis, and the great tips and recommendations of Dr. Bilal Abdul Halim, as they recounted several interesting stories about Salukis, and asked various questions about Saluki raising, training, advantages and their current significance and importance.
During that Ramadan Majlis’ cultural evening, many of the Saluki owners displayed to the present public their Salukis, some of which had already won either Saluki races, or beauty contests.

Through the launching of Harf Club activities in the National Month of Reading
The National Library and Archives enriches knowledge and raises awareness with The Laws of Human Nature

The Harf Club of the National Library and Archives began its activities in the National Month of Reading with a book review session discussing Robert Greene’s book, The Laws of Human Nature. The session comes within a series of cultural events aiming at enriching knowledge in line with the National Library and Archives’ new branding, which aspires to empower and enrich knowledge societies.
The session, which was held at Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Hall at the National Library and Archives, was presented by Mr. Walid Saif Ghailan, Deputy Director of Harf Club. He pointed out that this book aims to clarify the primary motives of human behaviour, transform the reader’s understanding of people’s behaviour, and change the way they handle them for the better. This signals the National Library and Archives’ interest in reading as a gateway to civilization and the access to all sciences through which we learn about the previous peoples’ experiences and the present human achievements.
Harf Club selected the Laws of Human Nature by the American author Robert Green because it is the fruit of scientific studies rather than an individual point of view. Each chapter begins with a story explaining the motive (law), the impact of which is then divulged together with ways of positively taking advantage of it. The book emphasizes that human nature cannot be changed, but rather refined.
Participants in the session focused on the importance of the skills which need to be practiced in order to become habits according to the book. The session touched on the laws discussed in the book, namely the Law of Irrationality, Law of Narcissism, Law of Role-Playing, Law of Compulsive Behaviour, Law of Shortsightedness, Law of Self-Sabotage, Law of Blind Imitation, and others.
It should be noted that the Harf Club is one of the initiatives of the National Library and Archives to encourage reading.

As there are many of them in the UAE and due to the significance of their contents
The National Library and Archives Organizes a Lecture About Private Archives and their Importance.
Based on the significance and the abundance of private archives in the UAE, and their role in documenting historical facts that enrich the nation’s memory, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a lecture entitled: “Private Archives: Treasures of Individual Efforts”. The lecture shed light on the importance of archives, their diverse historical documents, their role in preserving crucial historical documents, the possibility of carrying out research on them, easy access to information, as well as the significance of private archives in preserving national identity.
In his lecture, Researcher Mr. Mohammed Al Habsi showcased several private archives he had visited over the course of a decade. He emphasized that these private archives are the result of individual efforts, which often necessitate more attention in accordance with scientific standards. Furthermore, he emphasized that without a defined identity and facilitated access to information, an archive cannot be considered an archive.
The lecture, held at Mohamed Bin Zayed Hall in the NLA, highlighted that a private archive comes in various forms such as personal archive, family archive, and association archive, which are is categorized based on the size of its collection, the location of preservation or organization, and its significance. Additionally, it illustrated different types of archives such as the historical archive, the artistic archive, the literary archive, maps and atlases archive, and the political archive. The lecture emphasized the significant roles of the archivist.
Mr. Al Habsi presented the methods of establishing private archives, affirming that they all originate from the passion of their owners for collecting and preserving documents. He also shed lights on the drawbacks of preserving private archives, such as piling up, unspecialized preservation containers, and wrapping methods that diminish the value of the documents. The primary challenges facing private archives are the natural challenges such as heat, humidity, varying temperatures, rodents, insects, etc.
The lecture, attended by a large number of individuals from the NLA and outside, concluded that the private archives require legislations and regulations, registration and documentation, training courses for their owners, moral and financial support, and digitization. Consequently, Mr. Al Habsi emphasized the crucial role of the NLA in this regard.

The National Library and Archives Opens at its Headquarters a New Advanced Reading Hall, and Organizes More than 300 Activities During the UAE Reading Month.
The National Library and Archives has completed its preparations for the UAE Reading Month with a program full of reading achievements and activities, based on its mission, which emphasizes its role in empowering and enriching knowledge societies.
Regarding the National Library and Archives’ celebration of this month, His Excellency Abdullah Majid Al Ali, the Director General, said: “Reading is the gateway to civilization and the basic threshold to every science. Through reading, we learn about the experiences of previous nations and the present human achievement. Reading is our means for dealing and interacting with the knowledge age and its tools that are persistently developing; we enrich knowledge society and knowledge-based economy.”
His Excellency ads: “As the United Arab Emirates celebrates the Reading Month, the National Library and Archives is keen to be a pleasant source of reading hub throughout the year by opening its doors to readers of all walks of life, and providing them with references, sources, and traditional and electronic information resources. We welcome the Reading Month by opening a second reading hall; which provides all the services to its visitors as per the finest practices and technologies, and by organizing more than 300 reading activities and events by which we reach the audience of the National Library and Archives.”
His Excellency pointed out that the National Library and Archives contributes in making reading a way of life in order to ensure its sustainability among the members of society due to its importance in supporting the process of innovation and excellence, and in continuing stainable knowledge development.
His Excellency said: “We are pleased to continue our journey in the light of the directives of our wise leadership in serving readers. We are paving the way for researchers and students who light the road towards the bright and honorable future to which we aspire.”
The National Library and Archives organizes a number of important events during the UAE Month of Reading, such as: The Great Thinkers Program, which celebrates the great writers and thinkers, the Cultural Season Program, which continues to provide lectures and seminars that enhance the role of the National Library and Archives in enriching the knowledge societies, and the Knowledge Program, which the National Library and Archives implements in cooperation with the Emirates Literature Foundation. The Louvre Museum will host its next symposium on 20 March.
The National Library and Archives has a program with the educational sector that includes a reading marathon for students, the “Let’s Go Together” program, which focuses on a guided reading for children, the “Innovators” program, which deals with writing, and “Emirates My Homeland program, which is a set of interactive workshops for children that are drawn from educational booklet.
The National Library and Archives will enrich the month of reading with public activities, including: “Question from a Book” competition that encourages the public to read its publications.
During the Month of Reading, the Emirates Library will provide two workshops to introduce the use of the new reading hall at the National Library and Archives’ headquarters, which features the latest technologies and services it provides to beneficiaries and ways to benefit from them. The National Library and Archives will host Ms. Basma Al-Mesbahi from the “Asif Ya” Reading Club in a symposium about the club and its role in the field of reading, and will host Mr. Amer Khazzi Al-Mahdi from the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood to talk about the impact of reading on his creative writing of scripts to short film.
On the same level, the National Library and Archives “Harf” Reading Club will also organize four events, starting with the presentation of the book (Laws of Human Nature) in the Abrahamic House, and will meet creative people in clubs specialized in reading. Some writers and creative people in the National Library and Archives will speak about their experiences and the impact of reading on their cultural upbringing and creativity.

Emphasizing the vital role of reading in acquiring knowledge and investing it in serious writing endeavours,
The National Library and Archives hosts a dialogue session at the “Memory of the Nation” pavilion at Sheikh Zayed Festival
The Youth Council at the National Library and Archives (NLA) hosted a dialogue session at the “Memory of the Nation” pavilion at Sheikh Zayed Festival 2024, aiming to encourage reading and serious writing. The NLA’s talented and creative authors participated in the session and shared their personal experiences and their cultural and intellectual background.
The session speakers included Mrs. Fatima Al Mazrouei, Mr. Rashed Al Hamadi, Mrs. Iman Al Breiki, and was moderated by Mr. Mohammed Bishr, President of the NLA Youth Council.
The session shed light on the importance of reading as an essential knowledge acquirement tool that is unanimously considered more efficient when one starts it at an early age. Mrs. Fatima Al Mazrouei stressed that the upbringing of children plays a vital role in encouraging them to read and gain knowledge and referred to home libraries and grandmothers’ tales as essential sources of inspiration. She added that she has been a bookworm since she was a child and has produced dozens of books, the latest being “Expo from Osaka to Dubai” along with numerous novels, plays, short stories, poems, and essays. She also pointed out the importance of the National Law of Reading and the National Reading Month, the initiatives and activities of which she encouraged the public to take advantage of and to select useful books.
Mr. Rashed Al Hamadi showcased his best-selling book at the Sharjah Book Fair titled “Black and White,” which delves into a myriad of subjects, ideas, and issues related to the youth. He emphasized the significant role his father played in nurturing his talents, particularly in reading and writing. Moreover, Mr. Al Hamadi underscored the importance of having libraries at home and highlighted the value of acquiring knowledge through reading. He also encouraged young people to actively seek opportunities rather than waiting for them.
Mrs. Iman Al Breiki, author of “Tolerance in The United Arab Emirates” and “The United Arab Emirates: History and Accomplishment” which are among the remarkable publications of the NLA, pointed out that she took advantage of the NLA resources including document and pictures. She emphasized that her father is her first teacher and inspirer, who encouraged her to pursue reading and writing, and she drew strength of character from him.
The dialogue session also featured numerous contributions and questions regarding e-books and the decline of paper books, as well as the impact of electronic systems on reading habits.